The Department of Civil Aviation is preparing to be a leader in aviation in the Caribbean

This assistance is part of the technical support by the ICAO through their program called the Systemic Assistance Programme(SAP).

This assistance was possible thanks to the efforts by the Aruba delegation back in February 2022. It consisted of the Minister of Transport, Mr.  Ursell Arends, representatives of the Aviation Directorate Aruba, Mr. Edwin Kelly, and Mr. Anthony Kirchner,

who traveled to Mexico to meet with the Top executives of ICAO. During this meeting, Minister Arends and ICAO Regional Director, Mr. Melvin Cintron, signed an Intention of Compromise for implementing the SAP. This program is currently in its implementation phase.

The Aruban delegation had to make extra efforts to defend Aruba's rights to continue to use the benefits of Civil Aviation. No other country has the right to land or take off any aircraft. It is a privilege granted to those who comply with international civil aviation regulations. Aruba complies with most of these international treaties thanks to the efforts of the professionals at the Aviation Directorate and other significant stakeholders like ANSA, Beatrix Airport, and the Meteorological Department.

However, Aruba is not in 100% compliance with the regulations, which resulted in Aruba not being the regional leader in civil aviation. The ICAO executives brought it to the delegation of Aruba's attention during a presentation. With the team of ICAO present in Aruba, the Department of Civil Aviation is keeping up with its commitment to do everything in its power to implement the required processes to meet all the International Aviation regulations.

All these efforts are part of the preparation for an audit, which is essential for Aruba as it will increase our level of Aviation security. It impacts our sole economic pillar, tourism, and quality of life, as we import most products into Aruba. The expectation is for the official audit to take place in the upcoming year.

Minister Arends is happy with the entire process and proud of our professionals working with the ICAO team to elevate Aruba to the top of aviation in the Caribbean. The Government of Aruba recognizes the importance of aviation for Aruba and will dedicate all the available resources to meet the ICAO regulations.